How Long Does a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC) Take?
Wondering how long an NCCHC takes? Here's what to expect
If you’ve ever applied for a Nationally Coordinated Criminal History Check (NCCHC) in Australia, you’ve probably asked yourself, “How long will this take?” Knowing the expected processing time can help you plan and avoid unnecessary stress, whether you need a background check for a new job, volunteering, licensing, or another reason.
At AuthNTick, we work hard to process checks quickly while maintaining accuracy and compliance with national security protocols. So, how long should you expect to wait? Let’s dive in!
How Long Does an NCCHC Usually Take?
We get it—you want your background check done fast. While we aim to process applications quickly, processing times can vary. Here’s a general breakdown:
- 70% of checks are completed within one business day.
- Most remaining checks are finalized within 10 business days.
- A small percentage (around 5%) may take longer than 20 business days.
For most people, it’s a quick and easy process. But if your check takes longer, there’s usually a reason behind it.
Why Do Some Background Checks Take Longer?
If your NCCHC is delayed, don’t panic! Several factors can impact processing times. Here are the most common reasons:
- Name Matching & Extra Verification
If your name and date of birth closely match someone with a criminal history, your check may be flagged for additional review. This doesn’t mean you have a record—it just means the police must verify the information.
- Cross-Jurisdictional Data Sharing
The NCCHC process involves retrieving records from police agencies across Australia. Transferring information between different states or territories can add extra processing time.
- High Demand Periods
Background check applications surge during peak hiring seasons (like the end of the year or major event periods). This increased volume can lead to longer wait times.
- Errors or Missing Information
Mistakes happen! Incorrect personal details, misspelled names, or missing documents can cause delays. Double-checking your application before submission can help prevent unnecessary hold-ups.
- Manual vs. Automated Processing
Some applications are processed automatically in minutes, while others require manual verification by police agencies. If your check falls into the manual category, expect it to take anywhere from 2 to 10 working days, or in rare cases, more than 20 business days.
How to Speed Up Your NCCHC Processing Time
Want to avoid delays? Here are a few simple steps to help your background check go through smoothly:
- Check your details carefully. Ensure your name, date of birth, and ID documents are accurate and match official records.
- Submit all required documents upfront. Incomplete applications are a significant cause of delays.
- Use an accredited provider. Applying through a trusted service like AuthNTick ensures your application is handled efficiently.
- Apply early. If your check is for employment, licensing, or another time-sensitive reason, don’t wait until the last minute!
Does a Delay Mean You Have a Criminal Record?
Not necessarily! A delay does not mean there’s a criminal record associated with your name. It simply means that additional verification is needed. ACIC and police agencies follow strict procedures to ensure accuracy before disclosing any information.
Get Your NCCHC with AuthNTick – Fast, Secure & Reliable!
At AuthNTick, we make background checks simple, secure, and hassle-free. Our streamlined process ensures your application is handled quickly and accurately, with full transparency along the way.
So, if you need an NCCHC, don’t wait!
National Coordinated Criminal History Check
Used to assess criminal history for employment and compliance purposes
Understanding the process and potential delays allows you to stay ahead of the game and avoid last-minute surprises. If you have any questions about your application status, our team is here to help!
